Flying with kids comes with a long list of hurdles. And if you’re planning to travel by plane with your family soon, many of these challenges have probably already crossed your mind. Everything from packing the right gear to keeping kids entertained can be enough to keep any parent up at night!
But have you thought about how to fly safely with your kids? Many people assume that because the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) allows children under 2 to sit on a parent’s lap, it must be safe. However, that’s far from the truth. Safe air travel requires children to be secured in an FAA-approved car seat.
While that may sound like a hassle, it doesn’t have to be! With the right car seat and a smart airport plan, the whole process can be surprisingly smooth. Most parents also agree that kids are more comfortable and easier to manage when secured in their car seats. After all, they’re already used to traveling this way!
Here at Safe in the Seat, we’re family travel experts with plenty of resources to make flying stress-free. For all the details, download our Safe in the Sky Travel Guide, which includes everything from airline-specific policies to printable packing lists.
But while you wait for that to download, we’ll discuss the best FAA-approved rear-facing and forward-facing car seats below:
Car Seat Approved for Aircraft Use: FAA Safety Guidelines
In this post, we’ll cover how to take car seats on planes, the FAA regulations for car seats, and our top picks for air travel-friendly car seats. This information will help you travel confidently and keep your kids safe while flying.
Can You Take Car Seats on Airplanes?
Yes! In fact, the Federal Aviation Administration recommends that children be in an FAA-approved car seat. This is because, in extreme turbulence, a rough landing, or even an aviation accident, holding your child on your lap won’t keep them safe.
Car seats are designed to prevent excessive movement in a crash. Because of this, they’re very effective at keeping your child protected during a rough ride, whether motor vehicle or airplane. Using a proper car seat ensures your child stays safe and secure from takeoff to landing.
Here’s how to install your car seat on an airplane seat. We promise, it’s easier than it sounds!
Are All Car Seats FAA-Approved?
Most car seats are FAA-approved. You can check if your car seat is approved by looking for a sticker on the side or back that reads:
“This restraint is certified for use in motor vehicles and aircraft.”
You can also verify FAA approval in the user manual.
It’s important to note that belt-positioning booster seats are not FAA-approved. Only car seats with a 5-point harness meet the requirements. Remember: car seats not approved for air travel do still meet car safety standards. However, they may be too big for airplane seats or have installation methods that aren’t compatible with aircraft.
The primary modern issue with car seats is rotating bases. Some of these swivel seats are FAA-approved, and some are not. Always check the label, but here are seats listed for sale that are not FAA-approved:
- Maxi Cosi Andi 360
- Nuna REVV Rotating
- Graco EasyTurn
- CYBEX Sirona S
- Joie Chili Spin SI
- Safety 1st Turn and Go 360
What Are FAA Regulations for Car Seats?
Child safety on aircraft isn’t as stressful as you may assume. Here are the key things to keep in mind before boarding:
- Children can use an FAA-approved car seat (though it is not required).
- Do not use booster seats on aircraft.
- Do not use RideSafer Travel Vests on aircraft.
- Keep car seats from obstructing the airplane aisle.
- Buckle children into their car seats as usual.
- Secure car seats with the airplane’s lap belt.
- Do not install car seats in exit rows.
- Children weighing between 22-44 pounds can use a Child Aviation Restraint System (CARES) harness instead of a car seat. (Not our recommendation.)
What Car Seats Are FAA-Approved?
As mentioned, most car seats are FAA-approved. Even though you are not required to use a car seat on a plane for children, it remains the safest way to travel. Plus, the proper car seat doesn’t just keep your child secure during the flight. It will also provide a safe seat for your car rental or rideshare once you reach your destination.
We do not recommend car seat rentals. They are unsafe and unreliable. Additionally, checking a car seat can lead to it being damaged or even lost. The only way to ensure your child has a safe, properly fitting seat at your destination is to bring your own on the plane.
If bringing your current car seat isn’t practical, we understand. Removing a seat from a vehicle can be a hassle. Plus, some models are heavy or bulky, making them less than ideal for air travel. In these cases, we recommend investing in a travel-specific car seat designed for flights.
Here are the best car seats for airplane travel:
SITS Favorite Travel-Friendly Car Seats
Best FAA-Approved Travel Infant Car Seats
- Evenflo NurtureMax: Extremely lightweight and affordable
- UPPAbaby Aria: Lightweight, slim, privacy canopy, anti-rebound handle, European baseless install, and no-rethread harness
- Clek Liingo: Lightweight, compact, and European baseless install
- Joie Mint Latch: Lightweight, slim, and baseless install with rigid lower anchors
- Graco GoMax: Lightweight, baseless install with rigid lower anchors, and no re-thread harness
Best FAA-Approved Travel Convertible Car Seats
- Baby Trend Trooper Slim: Lightweight, slim, integrated cup holders, and affordable
- Cosco Scenera Extend: Lightweight, machine-washable seat pad, and affordable
- Safety 1st Ellaris: Lightweight, no-rethread harness
Best FAA-Approved Travel Forward-Facing Car Seats
- Graco Tranzitions: Slim, machine-washable seat pad, removable dishwasher-safe cup holders, no-rethread harness, and affordable
- WAYB Pico: Extremely lightweight, compact fold, baseless, and easy lower anchor installation
Always use an FAA-approved car seat when traveling with young children.
Traveling with kids can be stressful, but choosing an FAA-approved car seat makes it safer and smoother for everyone. Whether you’re bringing your everyday seat or investing in a lightweight travel model, a car seat is always the best choice for air travel. And, all you need is a little preparation and the right gear. Now you can take off knowing your child is truly ready for adventure from takeoff to touchdown and the journey beyond!
Preparing for an upcoming flight? Read these posts on the Safe in the Seat blog next:
- Tips for Bringing Your Car Seat on an Airplane
- Safe Airplane Travel Hacks and Tips
- Kids’ First Flight: What to Expect and How to Plan
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